Israel protests call to end Gaza war

Families of captives lead protests as pressure grows to halt the Gaza onslaught and secure hostage releases.

Israelis push nationwide protest to end Gaza war and free hostages

Thousands of protesters across major cities in Israel gathered to call for an end to the Gaza war and the release of captives believed to be held there. The demonstrations, organized by groups representing families of captives and bereaved relatives, led to roadblocks and closures of schools and public transport. Police reported dozens of arrests amid a day of demonstrations at locations such as Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square and Beeri near the Gaza border, signaling a rare moment of domestic civil action over a long-running conflict.

The protests reflect deep moral and political strain at a moment when the government says it plans to press on with operations in Gaza City. Supporters argue that hostage diplomacy is essential, while critics warn that continued fighting harms civilians and risks the lives of captives. International attention margins the domestic debate, with Egypt pursuing a possible 60-day truce and the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants tied to war crimes, complicating the political landscape. The challenge for leaders is to translate street pressure into a sustainable strategy that secures hostages and minimizes casualties while maintaining regional stability.

Highlights

Public mood may shift as diplomacy and military plans unfold in the coming weeks.